Euroviews. We cannot let a skills gap slow down green transition opportunities

The transition to net zero is a revolution for the entire economy. Every sector will undergo change, but energy will see one of the greatest transformations — and the greatest opportunity. 

We are moving rapidly away from a dependence on polluting fossil fuels, towards clean forms of energy. Technologies like wind and solar PV, smart grids, and storage — both hydroelectric “gigabatteries” and lithium-ion batteries — are leading the way, supported by new solutions such as green hydrogen. 

Now that the economic slowdown is urging all industries to identify new business models that can bring investments and jobs, clean energy emerges as a unique source of sustainable activity.

The scale of this transformation is vast in many ways, but it is perhaps most significant for the future of employment. 

People, their skills and their labour are the key to transitioning to a greener economy and lowering carbon emissions. The countries, sectors and regions that best help workers acquire new skills quickly and effectively will be at the forefront of the transition.

The International Labour Organisation paints a compelling picture of a greener economy. It estimates that the transition will create 100 million new "green jobs" by the end of this decade. 

Engineers, offshore and onshore construction workers, electricians, battery chemists and electric vehicle designers are just some of the roles poised for a surge in demand.

Business leaders seem to agree. Earlier this week, Iberdrola launched a new report called the Green Skills Outlook. Research carried out for the report found that business leaders are highly optimistic about the green transition, with 79% saying it presents more opportunities than challenges for their organisation. 

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